It all started on Hinge in early June 2024 — a modern love story, complete with carefully crafted prompts and a healthy dose of skepticism. Erica was on a two-week trip visiting family and friends when she and Russell matched, which meant their first date had to wait. Luckily, Russell kept her attention (and interest) through great conversation and even better jokes.

Before they met in person, Russell suggested a “quick” get-to-know-you phone call. Erica, after much internal debate, agreed — expecting a polite 10-minute chat. Two hours later, they were still laughing, sharing stories, and realizing how much they had in common.

Finally, on June 28, they met for their first date at Gypsy Kitchen in Atlanta. They had so much to talk about, they accidentally closed the restaurant — without ever ordering dinner. (Charcuterie and wine apparently do count as a full meal when you’re falling for someone.)

Not wanting to waste any time, Russell asked Erica out again for the very next night. Their second date at Ruby Chow’s confirmed what they were both already thinking: this might really be something. The next day’s “third date” was supposed to be bowling, but Erica forgot socks — a small oversight that led to an impromptu visit to Northside Tavern, where she introduced Russell to her favorite local dive.

Then came two more weeks apart for Erica’s bachelorette-party-filled travel schedule. Russell didn’t miss a beat, sending flowers to her parents’ house (after a minor delivery mishap — persistence pays off). For the first time in her life, Erica was ready to cut a trip short and get back to Atlanta.

The months that followed were filled with weekend getaways, meeting each other’s families, and celebrating holidays together — including Russell’s first Chicago Christmas. Their worlds blended naturally, and their circles of friends quickly became one big, joyful crew (a must-have for both of them).

They’ve since learned they can travel together — after a week in Italy that confirmed they’re just as good a team abroad as they are at home — and they can enjoy music together, after countless concerts that proved Russell can, in fact, share the spotlight on the aux cord.

The grand gestures from Russell haven’t stopped since those first flowers, and neither have the home-cooked meals from Erica — both always finding ways to make sure the other feels loved and cared for.

Exactly 484 days after that first date at Gypsy Kitchen, Russell got down on one knee and asked Erica to marry him — followed by the most thoughtful surprise engagement party surrounded by their favorite people.

They can’t wait to start their life together in Decatur, Georgia and celebrate with all of you on June 13, 2026.